Make budget cuts evenhanded

Thursday

Aug 30, 2007 at 4:16 AM

A familiar pattern is unfolding as Florida city and county officials search for potential budget cuts to meet a state-mandated reduction in property taxes: Nearly every item that they consider deleting has supporters who want it spared.

Consequently, the path of least resistance often is found in places accustomed to taking a hit at budget time -- programs that serve people who are not as vocal or well organized: the poor and the residents of long-underserved communities.

It's ground that has already been traveled by many communities in the region during the current budget debates. Sarasota County, for example, is considering raising bus fares by 50 percent. And Charlotte County has proposed cutting its funding of nonprofit groups by 40 percent.

As Bradenton officials look for about $1.5 million in cuts, they should resist the temptation to head down that well-worn path.

City officials already are taking steps to shrink city government: Some jobs will be left unfilled, travel expenses have been cut, and some raises have been curtailed.

But more juggling of priorities may be ahead at the first public hearing on Bradenton's budget at 5 p.m. Sept. 6.

Officials expect to preserve funding for improvements at Norma Lloyd Park, the future home of the 13th Avenue Community Center.

They should. The center has already waited too long for financial help.

Cuts also are being considered for other long-discussed programs, including a one-stop service center for the homeless. The project is intended to boost aid to the needy and revive Tamiami Trail.

As the debate continues, residents of all parts of the city need to speak up and help the City Council find a path that accommodates as many people as possible.